Lord Arthur Savile's Crime; The Portrait of Mr. W.H., and Other Stories by Oscar Wilde is a collection of short stories showcasing his wit, social commentary, and exploration of various themes. Here's a breakdown of the two main stories and the overall collection:
Lord Arthur Savile's Crime:
- Plot: Lord Arthur Savile, a wealthy and shallow gentleman, becomes obsessed with the idea of committing a crime after hearing a palm reader's prediction. The story follows his attempts to fulfill this prophecy and the unexpected consequences.
- Themes: Fate vs. free will, social pressures, the absurdity of Victorian upper-class life, and the power of suggestion.
- Style: Wilde's signature wit and satire are present throughout. The story is darkly humorous and suspenseful with a surprising twist ending.
The Portrait of Mr. W.H.:
- Plot: This story explores the identity of Mr. W.H., the enigmatic dedication in Shakespeare's sonnets. It delves into the possibility of a romantic relationship between Shakespeare and a young actor named Willie Hughes.
- Themes: The nature of art and inspiration, the power of beauty, homoeroticism (presented subtly due to Victorian social constraints), and the search for truth within artistic creation.
- Style: The story is more introspective and dreamlike compared to Lord Arthur Savile's Crime. It uses symbolism and historical references to explore its themes.
Other Stories:
- The collection likely includes several other short stories showcasing Wilde's versatility. These might explore themes like social satire, morality tales, or even fairytales with a dark twist.
Overall Tone:
- The collection offers a range of tones, from the darkly humorous and suspenseful in Lord Arthur Savile's Crime to the more introspective and dreamlike qualities of The Portrait of Mr. W.H.
Legacy:
- This collection is a valuable introduction to Wilde's work. It demonstrates his ability to weave social commentary, wit, and deeper themes into captivating narratives.
By reading Lord Arthur Savile's Crime; The Portrait of Mr. W.H., and Other Stories, you get a taste of Oscar Wilde's signature style and his exploration of various themes that continue to resonate with readers today.
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